“It was never personal”: Messi opens up about rivalry with Ronaldo, calls it natural part of football

In a rare reflective interview, Lionel Messi has addressed one of football’s most enduring storylines—his decade-long rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo—describing it as an authentic sporting clash, not a manufactured media spectacle.

The Argentine World Cup winner acknowledged that the intensity of their competition arose organically from the historic Real Madrid vs. Barcelona divide.

“This is quite normal in football,” Messi said. “He was at Real Madrid and I was at Barcelona—classic old rivals. We both fought for trophies and honors for our respective clubs. Football has always loved comparisons and rivalries, choosing one over the other.”

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner explained that the rivalry naturally emerged from the football environment, similar to club and national team battles, and remained strictly within sporting bounds. He noted that both players’ sustained success only amplified public interest.

Contrary to tabloid narratives of personal animosity, Messi clarified that they never shared a true friendship—but not due to conflict.

“We never had a true personal friendship because we rarely met—only at matches or award ceremonies. Back then, we were always competing to see who would win, but we always maintained a good relationship.”

Now in different stages of their careers—Messi with Inter Miami and Ronaldo with Al-Nassr—the Argentine struck a philosophical tone.

“Now we are far apart, in different stages of our lives. But in the end, it was all within the sport. I think it was a great chapter that people really enjoyed. I believe it was an extraordinary rivalry.”